Questions_1-7-14.docx

Question 1: Would the above referenced IDIQ contain Interpretive Planning, Exhibit Design for visitor centers, and graphic designs for interpretive panels?

Answer1: Yes, task orders awarded off these IDIQs may contain this type of work. However, the availability of this work is dependent on the specific needs of the agency at the time of task order award.

Qustion2: Our question pertains to both Architecture and Engineering Solicitations. Does the NFS select multiple teams for the IDIQ?

Answer2: The USFS anticipates awarding at least one IDIQ contract for AG-82X9-S-14-0002 and one IDIQ contract for AG-82X9-S-14-0003.

Question3: I am inquiring to see if you will be procuring Commissioning services for Solicitation Number: AG-82X9-S-14-0003. I was unsure if we could submit for Commissioning only or if we would have to partner with an A-E firm.

Answer3: Task orders awarded off these IDIQs may contain this type of work. However, the availability of this work is dependent on the specific needs of the agency at the time of task order award.

Question4: We’ve been tracking the Region 2 AE IDIQ for the USFS and noticed that it came out small business. We don’t qualify for that threshold, and I was wondering if you knew of any plans to also advertise for a full and open?

Answer4: Both AG-82X9-S-14-0002 and AG-82X9-S-14-0003 are small business set-asides. We do not anticipate advertising this as a full and open.

Question5: The solicitation indicates that multiple IDIQ contracts may be awarded. If this occurs, is it your intention for the awarded firms to each be offered separate task orders, or to compete against each other for the same task orders?

Answer5: The USFS anticipates awarding at least one IDIQ contract for AG-82X9-S-14-0002 and one IDIQ contract for AG-82X9-S-14-0003. If multiple IDIQ contracts are awarded, the guidelines under FAR 16.500 (d) will be followed.

FAR 16.500 (d): The statutory multiple award preference implemented by this subpart does not apply to architect-engineer contracts subject to the procedures in Subpart 36.6. However, agencies are not precluded from making multiple awards for architect-engineer services using the procedures in this subpart, provided the selection of contractors and placement of orders are consistent with Subpart 36.6.

Question6: If there are incumbent consultants, can you tell us what percentage of the work the incumbents have performed over the past 5 years?

Answer6: The USFS currently has IDIQ contractors performing similar work as those advertised under AG-82X9-S-14-0002 and AG-82X9-S-14-0003. Per Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) regulations, agencies must follow the FOIA process and seek the approval of release for any information regarding current contractors.

Question7: Evaluation criteria Item 2 indicates that the prime consultant must be capable of attending frequent meeting with very little advance notice at the regional office in Golden. This leads us to three questions: Would the practical intention of this requirement be best understood to mean that the consultant needs to located in the Denver / Front Range area? Would otherwise qualified firms located elsewhere in Colorado be considered? Does very little advance notice mean a matter of hours or at least 24 hours advance notice?

Answer7: All qualified firms from the state of Colorado will be considered. The amount of advanced notice provided to the contractor will be dependent on the specific needs and urgency of the particular task order.

Question8: Are there incumbent firms that presently have this contract? If so can you provide their names, contact information, and for how long have they had this or a similar contract with the USFS?

Answer8: The USFS currently has IDIQ contractors performing similar work as those advertised under AG-82X9-S-14-0002 and AG-82X9-S-14-0003. Per Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) regulations, agencies must follow the FOIA process and seek the approval of release for any information regarding current contractors.

Question9: If the services specified for this contact are being provided by other firms, how have those firms handled the professional licensing requirements in the five surrounding states? Was this done by teaming with large firms or all done in-house?

Answer9: The USFS currently has IDIQ contractors performing similar work as those advertised under AG-82X9-S-14-0002 and AG-82X9-S-14-0003. Per Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) regulations, agencies must follow the FOIA process and seek the approval of release for any information regarding current contractors.

Question10: We are considering forming or possibly joining a team for this proposal. Can you release the names of other proposers for which you may be aware at this time.

Answer10: Per Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) regulations, agencies must follow the FOIA process and seek the approval of release for any information regarding proposals submitted by offerors. These announcements on www.fbo.gov have allowed for contractors to post and view the interested vendors list for potential teaming arrangements.

Note1: A few questions were left via voicemail. We apologize but as stated in the announcements all question must be submitted via email. This ensures that all offerors will receive the same answers and equitable consideration.